The third annual NOLA ChristmasFest wrapped up Sunday and organizers are calling the event a huge success.

Organizers took a risk this holiday season and changed things up by moving the event inside the New Orleans Morial Convention Center.

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During the first two years of hosting the event, only a few thousand people showed up. This year, more than 30,000 people attended the 10-day event and organizers couldn't be more pleased.

"We have had great crowds, and the people who came have been really patient. This is the first year inside event so its been a really great experience for all," said Diane Lyons, with NOLA ChristmasFest.

Lyons said moving the event inside was the best decision because they were able to offer more activities for the kids like large inflatables, carnival rides, a maze, art projects and this year's featured attraction -- an ice skating rink -- which was the biggest hit.

"People have loved the ice rink. Everyone is learning to skate or they really can skate. Who knew they could all skate like that; it's amazing," Lyons said.

Christmas New Orleans Style started three decades ago, but is the third year the Convention Center has participated.

The sole purpose for hosting the event was to boost tourism during what was called a slow time in New Orleans. Organizers said they accomplished that. Thousands came out from all over the region to participate in NOLA ChristmasFest.

"We've had fabulous results from the people of the gulf south. People from Houston, Houma and Biloxi have all come in to be apart of NOLA ChristmasFest and we are so excited that they came and thank them so much for starting this great tradition," Lyons said.

Lyons said families made the day of it spending at least four hours having fun at the event. ChristmasFest is funded by the Convention Center and the team will begin planning the 2016 festival next week.